The Following from the NZ Barbarians Camp: The New Zealand Barbarians team to play an historic match against the New Zealand Maori team was announced by Coach Bryce Woodward today.

The 22-man squad includes an impressive 14 players from the Rebel Sport Super 14 competition and will have at least two players from the visiting Irish squad.  The team is as follows:

Barbarians team:

Coach Woodward said he was delighted with the calibre of the players invited to join the New Zealand Barbarians.

“Although three of our spots are still to be confirmed, we’re very excited that in the spirit of the Barbarians tradition, two of the Irish internationals are joining us.  And in keeping with another Baabaas tradition, we have recruited a young up and comer in Bryce Heem who has been in the Auckland Under 20 and Blues development squads and is currently in the Auckland Academy.

This is a really strong line up and I’m looking forward to getting the team together.  We are all about to be part of something special and for these guys, it’s a real privilege to be asked to share in the tradition and honour of assembling and playing with the New Zealand Barbarians

This is a great opportunity to play a part in celebrating another great milestone in rugby history – that of 100 years of Maori rugby in this country.  I’m delighted that the New Zealand Baabaas get the first match against the New Zealand Maori in their Centenary year,” Woodward said.

The side will be captained by Highlanders and Otago flanker Alando Soakai.

  • New Zealand Barbarians v New Zealand Maori
  • Saturday 12th June, 4:35pm
  • Northland Events Centre